Compleat Female Stage Beauty

Just before the Studiobühne is torn down and the ensembles have to find new stages, they say goodbye to their old home. For this occasion the English Drama Group plays “Compleat Female Stage Beauty” by Jeffrey Hatcher.

The appeal of this play lies in theatre’s own history. In the middle of the 17^th century an eternal tradition is broken and actual women take the stage. By edict of King Charles II women parts are to be acted out by women. The audience is enthusiastic and writers begin to tailor their plays to actresses.

But there has always been tough competition in showbiz. Until 1660 the boy-actors were the darlings of the public. Feminine men shined in the great female roles - be it Lady Macbeth, Juliet or Desdemona. The later is the signature role of Edward Kynaston who, before the breech of tradition, is a star with friends in high places. Yet when the actress Margaret Hughes outshines him Kynaston has to ask himself: “Women on stage. What will become of me?” Encapsulated in this play, we find the society of the English restoration, with its preferences for coffeehouses, parks and pompous proms at court.

The play, which achieved some prominence as a movie, is entirely based on historical characters - all with a dramatic twist. This combination creates a humorous story, which deals with changes, fame and the dignity needed, when it comes to embracing the future open-mindedly.

Compleat Female Stage Beauty at the Studiobühne Domplatz 23.

Premiere on the 5th of February at 8 PM

Also on Friday the 10th at 8 PM,

Saturday the 11th at 7:15 PM,

and Sunday 12th at 8PM

See You!